It’s no myth, Lakers' Pelinka and Redick enter season on the brink
Los Angeles Times • • sports
Key Points:
- Lakers executives Rob Pelinka and JJ Redick used mythological and literary references during their pre-training camp press conference, perhaps to mask the grim reality facing the rebuilding team.
- Both Pelinka and Redick’s jobs are at risk as the Lakers transition to new ownership under Bob Iger and Joshua Kushner, who may seek to replace current leadership if the team fails to quickly improve.
- Pelinka, who built the 2020 championship team but has not won since, and Redick, who coached the team to consecutive 50-win seasons but now must prove himself without LeBron James, face significant pressure this season.
- Redick acknowledged challenges in the starting lineup and referenced internet criticism about the team’s racial composition, while emphasizing the need for unity and resilience akin to heroes in mythological tales.
- Both leaders framed the season as a difficult journey with high expectations to make the playoffs and contend, but failure could lead to major leadership changes and mark a tumultuous era for the Lakers.
